Eye Lid Laxity

Description/Introduction

Eyelids protect your eyes from any foreign bodies while keeping them lubricated throughout. Any alteration in the shape, position or function of your eyelids can predispose your eyes to a plethora of ailments or interfere with our vision.

Our eyelid is a complex structure consisting of three theoretical layers:

Anterior Layer contains the skin and orbicularis muscle

Middle Layer contains the orbital septum and eyelid retractors

Posterior Layer contains tarsus and conjunctiva.

Eyelid malpositions include any unnatural or incorrect positioning and orientation of eyelids due to various factors that influence any of the three layers of the eyelids. They might possibly be caused due to ageing, trauma, scarring, birth defects or medical disease involving any or all of the three layers.

Common Consequences of Eyelid Malpositions

Decreased vision due to blockage of visual axis by the mal-positioned eyelid or secondary to corneal ulcer formation.

Irritation of the eyes due to an eyelash rubbing the cornea or conjunctiva

Corneal ulcer due to repeated rubbing of corneal surface by the eyelashes or eyelid margin.

Corneal or conjunctival dryness due to exposure leading to irritation, discomfort, keratitis or corneal ulcer.

Repeated infections of the lachrymal sac due to a blocked punctum.

Common Symptoms associated with Eyelid Malpositions

Dry eye and irritation

Painful eye

Disfigurement of the eyes

Excessive watering of eyes

Corneal ulcer

Photophobia

Decreased vision due to visual axis blockage by eyelids or corneal ulcer

Disfigurement

Evaluation and treatment of eyelid malpositions needs to be disease-specific and tailored to the patient’s needs. This requires consultation with an eye surgeon familiar with treating various eyelid malpositions. More detailed explanations on each particular eyelid malposition is provided elsewhere for your ready reference

Eyelid Positional Disorders

Ectropion

Ectropion is the medical term used to depict sagging and outward turning of the lower eyelid and eyelashes. The margin of the eyelid and the eyelashes revert (turn out) . This rubbing can lead to excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge and irritation of the eyeEntropion

Entropion is the medical term used to depict sagging and outward turning of the lower eyelid and eyelashes. The margin of the eyelid and the eyelashes invert (turn in) . This rubbing can lead to excessive tearing, crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge and irritation of the eye